Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Practice

Using an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) after beginning CPR is vital to the success of the resuscitation effort. AEDs are critical because they can deliver an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. The proper sequence involves starting CPR immediately to maintain blood flow to the brain and other vital organs, and the AED can be applied as soon as it is available. The shock provided by the AED can greatly improve the chances of survival if administered as soon as possible following the initiation of CPR.

While performing CPR alone, administering medications, or only doing compressions can contribute to the response, they do not capture the full spectrum of best practices for resuscitation, particularly when an AED is readily available, making it a crucial tool for improving outcomes in cardiac arrest situations.